Search Results for: blog scrapbookers block

Beating Scrapbooking Block

Even the best crafters suffer from scrapper’s block every once in a while. In fact, after designing hundreds of layouts, it’s not uncommon for the most experienced scrapbookers to resort to beginner techniques or materials. Recently, I was quite shocked to learn that my neighbor and scrapbooking mentor (she has been creating elaborate memory albums for more than 25 years) uses instructional scrapbook paper from time to time. The paper she uses comes from a manual called Layout Blueprints. The spiral bound book features dozens of page designs that you can place on a copier and print out to meet … Continue reading →

Scrapbookers Block

We have all heard of writers block. I have been known to suffer from it myself. Less known is what I call scrapbookers block. It’s similar to writers block. You are ready to scrapbook. You have all of your pictures and supplies out, ready to go, but then suddenly you are stuck. Now what? You have absolutely no idea how to go about creating your page. Perhaps you have been stuck in a pattern where every page or album looks pretty much the same, with only the colors being different. You are tired of putting together simple pages. But you … Continue reading →

Overcoming Scrappers Block (2)

Few scrapbookers are immune. In fact, the occasional mental or creative block regarding scrapbooking is normal. Overcoming scrappers block can be a challenge, however there are a few simple ways to make it easier. Yesterday I encouraged you to begin organizing your scrapbook stuff and reflecting on layouts you’ve already created in Overcoming Scrappers Block (1). Now it’s time to focus on a few new strategies. Journaling Games Not really games, per say, but journaling exercises of any kind, can often get your mind started, creative juices flowing and as quick as the scrappers block set in, it can be … Continue reading →

What Is Scrappers Block?

Scrappers block has been known to strike a die hard scrapbooker at any time. In fact, scrappers block knows no boundaries and can happen to anyone. But what is scrappers block, and how do you go about combating the wall that seems to erupt at any given moment? There are lots of ways to combat it, but first, let’s focus on what it is exactly and how it occurs. Scrappers block is not a whole lot different than what many famous writer’s face from time to time, known as Writer’s block. It is usually a period of time that can … Continue reading →

Scrapbooks Made Easy

I am a huge fan of Shutterfly albums. While some call them an insult to scrapbooks, when you are in a hurry or simply don’t have the creative juices to craft a traditional memory album, the hardcover digitally generated books featuring your favorite photos and journaling, simply can’t be beat. I like to refer to the albums as scrapbooks made easy. You simply can’t fail when crafting the digital albums, as the directions are a cinch to follow and the actual steps are short and sweet. Several companies offer these types of books, including Shutterfly and Snapfish, which have designed … Continue reading →

High-Tech Scrapbook Resources

Computers are a priceless resource when it comes to scrapbooking, and not just digital scrapbooking. I am a traditionalist when it comes to creating memory albums, which is why I don’t have too many examples of digital scrapbooking masterpieces. However, that doesn’t mean I don’t utilize my computer to create amazing layouts. When people hear about computers being used to enhance scrapbooking, most automatically focus on the different digital software options available on the market. For example, Photoshop is one of the most incredible resources for scrapbookers whose pictures need help, be it in the cropping, lighting, contrast or focus … Continue reading →

Embellishing Stamps

When it comes to easy scrapbook embellishments it doesn’t get much simpler than stamps. The inked rubber tools can be used on a variety of layout elements, from frames to journaling blocks. You can even create an entire page border from a set of small stamps or use letter stamps to craft a bold page title. These days the variety of rubber stamps on the market is virtually endless. There are hundreds of thousands of archival quality stamps available to scrapbookers looking to spice up their layouts with elaborate and whimsical designs that range from animal shapes to pre-printed phrases, … Continue reading →

Don’t Wait to Create

With the height of the spring break travel season upon us, many scrapbookers are heading out to soak up the sun, sand and surf. However, unless they’re thinking ahead, many of them may be missing the boat when it comes to capturing magical moments to preserve in travel scrapbooks. The key to crafting an exceptional vacation-themed memory book is to plan layouts while you are still enjoying your trip. Don’t wait to create. I learned that from a scrapbooking seminar I attended last year. Basically, it means that you should be formulating your game plan while you in the moment. … Continue reading →

Love is in the Air

Valentine’s Day is a popular holiday for beginner and avid scrapbook fans. With so many love-themed embellishments on the market, it’s almost impossible not to get caught up in the excitement of crafting a heartfelt tribute to a special someone in a single or double page layout. Whether you are designing a few pages or devoting an entire scrapbook to document your Valentine’s Day activities, you can’t go wrong by including some special love-related quotes. Famous phrases or sayings that focus on love are ideal for scrapbookers who struggle to express their own feelings in journaling blocks. Rather than racking … Continue reading →

Preserving Holiday Memories

Christmas Eve is here. While it’s easy to get caught up in the celebratory madness, if you are planning to scrapbook the holiday, you want to remember to document the festivities. Grab your camera and snap your family and friends partaking in holiday traditions, including sipping hot chocolate by an open fire or baking cookies to leave out for Santa. If you are planning to make a massive holiday meal, preserve the recipes to add to a recipe scrapbook or at the very least, place the directions in a journaling block along with photos of the finished products and shots … Continue reading →